A Honolulu nonprofit funds groups that aid women and children

Women provide the foundation for families, so communities rely on them. This is why the Women's Fund of Hawaii, a grant-making foundation reformed in 2005 as an independent nonprofit, is dedicated to supporting women and girls in the islands. The slogan says it all: "When women thrive, families and communities prosper."

Buehler said they provide grants to small, community-based organizations that directly address the challenges facing women and girls. Instead of funding operational budgets of larger institutions, the Women's Fund targets groups in which "a small grant would have maximum impact," or underwrite a specific program within an organization.

"When I was asked to join the board of directors and I saw the great work they were doing, I took time to reflect on all the blessings in my life and the female mentors who made such a huge impact," said Women's Fund Tea & Champagne chairwoman Kari Leong. Doing the same for other girls, she realized, "could make an impact on their lives that would last forever and affect their future choices. If we don't support women, who are the heart of the community, oftentimes the community starts to suffer. When our families are balanced and healthy, our community is balanced and healthy."